4. Where do works fit in?

Salvation is by grace alone; no works are required for salvation. “Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight.” (Romans 3:20) “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.” (Titus 3:5)

However, good works will certainly follow a genuine saving faith. “Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (James 2:17) God saved us not so we would continue to live like the world, but that we would become increasingly transformed to the image of His Son. “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.” (Titus 2:11-12)

Good works follow salvation, they don’t come beforehand.

God expects His born again children to produce fruit (good works) in the earth that He will reward us for in the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus says: “I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain.” (John 15:16) So while we are saved by faith alone, a genuine saving faith will never be alone, but will be accompanied by works that proceed out of a regenerated heart.

Read the next article in the series: 5. Is Jesus God?